Barcelona made significant progress in the Champions League yesterday with a 3-0 win over Brest. Hansi Flick’s team showed both strength and resilience, with the midfield, led by Pedri, particularly standing out due to an outstanding performance, showcasing his peak form. Alongside him, Dani Olmo impressed with his creativity and also scored a goal, further solidifying his integration with the team. In the second half, substitute Gavi continued to make an impact, reinforcing the coach’s trust in the young midfielder.
However, while some players are excelling, others, according to Spanish newspaper El Nacional, may be on their way out.
A key moment in the match involved Frenkie de Jong, whose future at Barcelona seems uncertain. The Dutch midfielder, who played just five minutes, was booed by the supporters, reflecting disappointment with his current form. Once seen as a pivotal signing, his influence on the team has significantly waned.
With the rise of young talents like Pedri, Gavi, Marc Casado, and Dani Olmo, De Jong’s role has diminished. He is no longer meeting expectations, and Flick no longer views him as a central figure in his plans. The competition within the squad is intense, with Pedri controlling the game, Gavi bringing energy, and Olmo adding creativity and goals, while De Jong has been relegated to a bench role.
The financial aspect further complicates matters, as De Jong’s high salary is putting pressure on the club. Barcelona’s board is considering his departure either in January or at the end of the season to alleviate financial strain and find a replacement aligned with the club’s future direction.
It seems increasingly clear that Barcelona’s midfield is evolving to better fit Flick’s vision, and De Jong’s exit, once unlikely, now appears to be a very real possibility.
